1. highest frequency

The highest frequency at which device produces audio. The higher the high-frequency response, the clearer and crispier the treble.

22000Hz

Sony MDR-Z1R: 120000Hz

25000Hz

30000Hz

2. lowest frequency

The lowest frequency at which the device produces audio. The lower the low-frequency response, the stronger and juicier the bass.

8Hz

Sony MH1CBLK: 1Hz

10Hz

5Hz

3. has sound isolation/passive noise reduction

The device sits tightly in place, creating an acoustic seal which reduces background noise and prevents your music from leaking out.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

45% have it

4. impedance

Impedance is the device’s electrical resistance to the current being pushed through it. The lower the impedance, the easier it is to get higher volume and requires less power.

23 Ohms

Flips Solo 2 Social: 4 Ohms

47 Ohms

50 Ohms

5. has a neodymium magnet

Devices with neodymium magnets are lighter and more powerful than those which use ferrite magnets. They also have more bass and clear high notes.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

34% have it

6. sound pressure level

Devices with a higher sound pressure level are generally louder when supplied with any given audio source.

98dB/mW

AKG K553 Pro: 144dB/mW

100dB/mW

107dB/mW

7. no battery needed

This device works without batteries. It weighs less and you don't have to worry about recharging or replacing the battery.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

70% have it

8. has a detachable cable

With a detachable cable you can use alternative cables, and if the cable is pulled it will pop out instead of breaking.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

39% have it

9. can be folded

Folding devices are good for transporting as they take up less space in your bag.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

32% have it

10. has an in-line control panel

There is a control panel on the cable, so you can easily operate the device without having to interact with it.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

45% have it

11. can be used as a headset

A headset is one headphone or pair with a built-in microphone. Headsets can be used for applications which require communication i.e. Skype, games with voice chat, mobile phones etc.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

40% have it

12. has stereo speakers

Devices with stereo speakers deliver sound from independent channels on both left and right sides, creating a richer sound and a better experience.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

78% have it

13. driver unit size

The driver unit is the component that produces sound in the device. Bigger drivers are more powerful and can produce better bass.

40mm

Audeze LCD2 Classic: 106mm

40mm

50mm

14. has an over-the-ear form

Comfortable full-size form with earcups that fully enclose your ears. This model is loved for its increased sound isolation and the fact that it won't leak sound to your neighbors. It offers potential for maximum bass and loudness levels.

15. travel bag is included

The device comes with its own special case or pouch, which is useful for safe transportation.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

63% have it

16. Can be used wirelessly

Wireless devices allow users more freedom of movement.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

19% have it

17. has an L-shaped plug

An L-shaped plug is better if the jack is on the left or right side of the device, so that the cable isn't bent, and is less likely to break when the device is in your pocket.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

31% have it

18. control panel placed on a device

There is a control panel on the device body, so you can easily access the volume control or remote without having to interact with a cable or another device it's connected to.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

16% have it

19. has active noise canceling/noise reduction

This type of device allows you to listen at lower volume levels, causing less ear fatigue as you don't have to crank up the volume to overcome background noise. Ideal for plane rides and morning commutes.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

12% have it

20. has a 3.5mm male connector

A standard 3.5mm male connector is suitable for use with all MP3 players and computer sound cards.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

84% have it

21. has a coiled cord

A coiled cord typically offers more flexibility as it can be extended, and taken outside for example.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

8% have it

22. has an on-ear form

This device comfortably rests on top of your outer ears. As it doesn't block out everything from the outside world, it's preferred in places like office environments and recommended for outdoor activities.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

23% have it

23. cable length

A long cable ensures more freedom of movement.

1.2m

Pioneer SE-A1000: 6m

1.2m

3m

24. has a rechargeable battery

The battery can be recharged and used over again.

Sony MDR-ZX770BN

Audio-Technica ATH-WS77

Panasonic RP-DH1250-S

12% have it

25. has a noise canceling microphone

These microphones are designed to filter out background noise from the desired sound. Especially useful in noisy environments.

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